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June 08, 2011

Rangers explain decision to draft paralyzed player

The Rangers selected Georgia outfielder Johnathan Taylor in the 33rd round of the draft Wednesday. Taylor was partially paralyzed in a collision with Zach Cone, who the Rangers drafted in the supplemental first round Monday night.

Here is what the Rangers director of amateur scouting Kip Fagg had to say about the move.

“We thought selecting Johnathan was the right thing to do. We would have drafted him either way, regardless of any other circumstances involving his injury or Zach’s draft status. Our area scout in Georgia, Ryan Coe, has had a relationship with Johnathan since he was a high school player. The club has always liked his passion and ability as a player.

“A few weeks ago, myself and a couple other members of our department visited Zach Cone in Georgia in the course of normal pre-draft activity. We presented Zach with a Rangers jersey for Johnathan that had been signed by the entire club, and asked if Zach could deliver it to his teammate.

“As an organization, I think all of us are always trying to do the right thing in any situation. Taking Johnathan in the draft today, it was something we felt was right.”

Taylor is paralyzed from the waist down after breaking his neck in a collision during a March game against Florida State. He is in a rehab facility.

Thank you, Texas Rangers, for thinking of this young man and his family. I imagine this act has helped to made their day and take their minds off of a terrible situation, if only for a little while. Best wishes to the player selected, Johnathan Taylor. You will be in my prayers.

I have been a fan of these Texas Rangers since I moved here in 1980, now I work at the Ballpark and I will say that this is one of the classiest organizations in baseball, an example of the way all people should act in this society at this time. With so many thugs playing sports today, I applaud the Rangers for selecting such awesome people for their organization. I only wish other pro teams would follow the Rangers example!